Born: October 24, 1975

Birthplace: Bradenton, FL

Residence: Bradenton, FL

Family: Son, Richie

First Win: Fun ’N’ Gun

Started Ownership: 2002

Tampa Trainer: Kirk Ziadie

In just a short time, Richard Averill has experienced success that many owners only dream about.  In only his third season at Tampa Bay Downs, Averill finished 3rd in the owner rankings with a stunning 61.9 win percentage and 80.9% in-the-money finishes.  His best horse thus far is the accomplished filly R Lady Joy, winner of the $500,000 G II Delaware Oaks and the 2005 Florida Oaks.  Averill also owns (in partnership) the promising filly Rgirldoesn’tbluff.  Averill’s interest in racing stemmed from visiting the track as a fan, and since then, racehorses have become his hobby.  An involved and hands-on owner, Averill can be found at the Oldsmar oval nearly every day.  His stable has grown from his first acquisition, Fun ’N’ Gun, to nearly twenty horses including broodmares and foals.  A Florida native, Averill grew up helping with his father’s business.  Although he was unsure about what he wanted to do after a short stint in college, he now owns his own construction company in the booming Bradenton market.  The masonry executive compares racehorse ownership to having his own mini sports franchise.  Averill cites his 6-year-old son, Richie, as his passion.